The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) has announced the official programs for its upcoming Grains Research Updates, set to take place at Optus Stadium in Perth on February 16-17, 2026. This year marks a significant milestone, celebrating 30 years of support for the Grains Research Updates, which is recognized as the largest annual event in the Western Australian grains industry calendar.
This year’s event promises to be the most extensive yet, featuring free tickets for grain growers and an impressive lineup of speakers from local, national, and international backgrounds. Following the Perth kickoff, the updates will continue to regional locations including Beaumont, Lake King, Brookton, Kalannie, and Mingenew throughout late February and early March.
Kayla Evans, GRDC Grower Relations Manager – West, highlighted that this year’s theme, “looking back, looking forward,” will guide the discussions. “This year’s programs will reflect on significant milestones from the last three decades while also addressing future challenges in grains research,” Evans stated. Attendees can expect to hear from over 90 speakers across nearly 30 sessions, including plenaries, panel discussions, and research showcases, marking the most comprehensive program in the updates’ history.
A notable feature of the Perth update is a special panel discussion commemorating the 30-year anniversary, facilitated by acclaimed journalist Phillipa ‘Pip’ Courtney. This discussion will spotlight key achievements in Western Australia’s grains research and analyze the role of the updates in disseminating these advancements to the industry. The panel will include prominent figures such as Geoff Fosbery, Juliet McDonald, Mark Sweetingham, and Nicole Kerr.
The opening address will be delivered by Sharon Starick, GRDC Chair and a grain grower from South Australia, who will outline future investment directions for the GRDC. Following her presentation, Gary Lang, GRDC Western Panel Chair, will announce the highly anticipated GRDC awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to the industry.
The second day will feature a GRDC New Frontiers Grainstorming breakfast designed for growers and advisors to share innovative ideas for impactful research. This session aims to gather insights from leading growers and advisors to ensure GRDC investments align with the industry’s evolving needs.
Lang noted that the subsequent one-day regional programs will bring essential research updates directly to growers. “In collaboration with local grower groups, these updates will deliver strategic insights to WA growers, ensuring they have the latest information to enhance productivity and profitability,” he said.
The regional updates will feature a range of prominent speakers from the Western Australian agricultural research community, including those from the WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD). This department has been integral to the updates since their inception in the early 1990s, providing valuable research outcomes aimed at improving industry productivity.
Cec McConnell, Deputy Director General at DPIRD, emphasized the importance of the Grains Research Updates, stating, “These events create a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, enabling attendees to connect with experts and discuss the latest research relevant to their operations.”
With its rich history and forward-thinking agenda, the 2026 Grains Research Updates are poised to be a landmark event for the grains industry, fostering collaboration and innovation among stakeholders.
